Shark vs. Train

Title: Shark vs. Train

Author: Chris Barton

Illustrator: Tom Lichtenheld

Publisher: LB-Kids (part of the Hachette Book Group)

http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/kids_index.aspx

Publication Date: 2010

Genre: Picture Book

Audience: Gr. PreK-2

Overview: The favorite toys of two competitive brothers, a Shark and a Train, compete with each other in a wide variety of contests, to see who exactly is the better toy. There are contests where one has a definite favorite, like when they go swimming in the ocean or give rides at a carnival, and then there are times when no one seems to have an advantage or gain anything from competition, like when they play hide and seek or sword-fight on a tightrope. Eventually, the brothers are called away for dinner, and the rival shark and train decide to settle things later.

Activity: The various events that the shark and train engage in would make it easy for students to envision their own competitions between the shark and train, or their own favorite toys. There is also a lesson to be taught from Shark vs. Train, in that the conflict between Shark and Train makes them both look rather silly throughout. The lesson could be taught revolving around the idea that conflict and competition is not always the best way to solve problems with others.

Reviewer’s Name: Zack Zajaczkowski